MATLAB Creating Graphical User Interfaces

Share Data Among Callbacks

In this section...

“Overview of Data Sharing Techniques” on page 11-2

“Store Data in UserData or Other Object Properties” on page 11-3

“Store Data as Application Data” on page 11-8

“Create Nested Callback Functions (Programmatic Apps)” on page 11-12

“Store Data Using the guidata Function” on page 11-13

“GUIDE Example: Share Slider Data Using guidata” on page 11-16

“GUIDE Example: Share Data Between Two Apps” on page 11-16

“GUIDE Example: Share Data Among Three Apps” on page 11-17

Overview of Data Sharing Techniques

Many apps contain interdependent controls, menus, and graphics objects. Since each

callback function has its own scope, you must explicitly share data with those parts of

your app that need to access it. The table below describes several different methods for

sharing data within your app.

Method Description Requirements and Trade-Offs

“Store Data in

UserData or

Other Object

Properties” on

page 11-3

Get or set property values directly

through the component object.

All UI components have a

UserData property that can store

any MATLAB data.

• Requires access to the
  component to set or retrieve
  the properties.


• UserData holds only one
  variable at a time, but you can
  store multiple values as a
  struct array or cell array.
  “Store Data as
  Application
  Data” on page
  11-8

Associate data with a specific

component using the setappdata

function. You can access it later

using the getappdata function.

• Requires access to the
  component to set or retrieve
  the application data.


• Can share multiple variables.

11 Manage Application-Defined Data